Anguilla’s governor and premier have stated that it is too early to speculate on the motives behind the island’s recent violent crimes, including the February 17 murder of Virgin Islander Omari Roberts, stressing that ongoing investigations must be allowed to take their course.
In a joint statement following a briefing with the Commissioner of Police, Anguilla’s Governor Julia Crouch and the Premier Dr. Ellis Webster strongly condemned the recent wave of violence, which includes a February 7 murder of an elderly man, a February 8 shooting which left a young man injured and the fatal shooting of Roberts.
“Our thoughts and prayers are firstly with the family and friends of all those who have lost their lives and all those affected. We are also aware of the heightened anxiety and fear this will have created across our normally peaceful island. This is not something we are, or should ever become, accustomed to,” the statement read.
The Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) said it is actively investigating each incident and following multiple leads, though authorities have not yet determined if any of the crimes are connected. Both the governor and premier are receiving regular updates from the commissioner of police.
Authorities have also expressed gratitude to members of the public who have already come forward with information and are urging others to do the same. Those with relevant details are encouraged to speak with a trusted officer within the RAPF or provide tips via the confidential website www.gov.ai/911. Officials assured the public that all information submitted through the site is securely stored off-island with restricted access.